Caribear

I have heard the same harsh comments as many people have...just cut back, exercise, diet, drink more water, eat more veggies...you name it, and I have probably heard it.
 
I didn't choose to be overweight, it just seemed to creep up on me slowly and before I knew it, I weighed 300 pounds...from having kids, from not being active, from being a good cook, from marrying into an Italian family.
 
I had WLS after my husband said to me that he was concerned about me and my health, and that he wanted me to be around so we could enjoy retirement together. He didn't want me to sleep all day and not be able to go for a walk, and mostly he could see how I was depressed from my weight. He is my biggest supporter, and he didn't care how much it would cost, just "get it done".
 
So, after years of yoyo dieting, trying every fad diet in the land, I was banded and I have to say it is the best money I have ever spent. I do not regret it for one moment because you see, I am a food-aholic...just like an alcoholic, but with food. I was not able to help myself.
 
Now, I have learned healthy eating habits and choose the foods that appeal to me. I no longer crave the chips, chocolates, ice cream, cake, cookies, popcorn that used to rule my life. Now when I get a hankering for something to eat, my thoughts turn to protein, veggies and fruit. But I know this would not have been possible without my band. My band is a reminder to me each and every day of the new me, and I am going to be on this wonderful journey forever.
 
So, when someone gives you a bunch of grief because you have decided or did have WLS, tell them to walk a mile in your shoes, and tell them to be sure to climb those stairs 2 or 3 times a day, and then tell them it is not a crime to want something better for yourself, to want to be around to see your kids or grand kids get married, to see them graduate. My bi-weekly trips to my dr's office are fantastic. I get excited to get on the scale and see that it has moved backwards, closer to a new me. The dr is proud of me too, and I can tell you, that goes a long way in my book of "good feelings".
 
So if you are contemplating WLS, I say B-R-A-V-O. YOU GO AN 'GET'ER DONE'. You will probably find the road a little bumpy at times, but so worth it.
 
 
I LOVE MY BAND
 
Zil
Banded 8/19/2011, starting weight, 299, weight loss to date 76#s, and another 65 to go...hoping to make it by 11/1/2012. Oh, BTW, it did take me 5 months to get into the green zone and that was with fills every 2 weeks.

So today is the official start day of the "Be My Valentine Challenge" looking forward to it, my goal is to lose ten pounds by the end of February, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
 
So glad to be eating mushies today, was on liquids all day yesterday and it was no fun! On top of that I worked overtime, and I did not give up on the gym, and why is it when I'm at the gym there are a ton of food commercials on? Really????
 
This morning I was up at 3am, I've been doing that every night, I wish it would stop because it makes me so tired in the afternoon!
 
Well time to get my day started, have a sick cat at home (Buddy), or he could be faking it, I don't know. All I want to do is get my day over get home and make sure he's okay, I'm such an animal lover. All he did was cough a little this morning and I freaked out, almost called the vet at 6am! But I'm just going to monitor how he's doing because he's eating and drinking, going to the bathroom, and is not hiding or acting depressed. I think he did it for attention (the coughing) to get me out of bed so he could eat!!!
 
Yes, I am the cat lady (just kidding!)
 
Have a wonderful day!!!!

I was thinking today about what I've learned so far on this journey. Shockingly, it was a great deal. Here are the top 10:
 
10. Know yourself. There is a ton of advice all over the net and in our own circles.. but we have to be wise enough to know how to "eat the meat and throw away the bones." Not everything that others do will work for you. We've invested in our bodies and now we have to make sure we get a ROI (return on investment)!! Don't sabotage yourself by trying to stick with the regimen of someone else. If you're not sure, speak with your doctor or nutritionist/fitness expert. Your medical team created a plan specifically for YOU! So while it's always good to get ideas and advice, we have to make sure we are first and foremost doing what is best for us.
 
9. Goals. Look to the future always. Don't get complacent w/the amount of weight you've lost or frustrated with the amount of weight you haven't lost..but always keep reaching for your goal. Set small goals in the interim and reward yourself. We're busting our asses and deserve to be kind and sweet to ourselves every now and then.
 
8. Excuses, excuses! While we are our worst critics, we also tend to go easy on ourselves at the least opportune times. "I've been working hard..I deserve that slab of chocolate cake." "The kids wore me out, and now I can't exercise." Don't get me wrong, I think we all need a break and need to reward ourselves every once in a while..just be careful not to let it snowball. I made this decision because I needed a lifestyle change.. not to continue to give myself "outs."
 
7. Positivity. Stress causes the secretion of Cortisol.. which leads to weight gain in many people. Thinking positive and generally finding the good in your situations creates what I like to call, "Happy Juice." Aka: Endorphins! Also created when you work out! Endorphins crush Cortisol and can result in weight loss! So stay positive and encouraged..even if that doesn't cause you to lose weight, you'll be a happier person!
 
6. Kindness. Be kind to yourself. I have a very swift tongue and can cut someone down like a hot knife through butter... unfortunately, I can do the same thing to myself just as easily. Remember it takes time to see results..but if we keep placing one foot in front of the other and keep pushing we'll all get to where we want to be.
 
5. Do something! Move your feet and your ass will follow!! Everyone works at their own pace. They lose weight at their own pace and that's OK. If you want to see results (possibly faster) and reduce your risk of other complications that come along w/being overweight, get moving!! Even if it's 30mins a day..some of us spend more time than that on the phone, watching a movie, talking to a friend, reading a book.. etc. The good thing about those activities is they can all be done in conjunction w/exercise.
 
4. No Magic Bullet. This band is not a "fix all" ..after you get banded you will still have taste buds that crave certain foods.. you will still be a jerk or a prima donna..or a sweetheart.. you'll still have money problems if you had them before.. you'll still have personal life issues to deal with. The world doesn't stop just because we've gotten banded. As we're taking the steps to lose the weight, we must take the steps to improve ourselves to be more well-rounded and level people. Don't neglect the rest of your life..the band, while pivotal, is only a small portion of it!
 
3. Support. Surround yourself with like-minded people, with common goals..not just for the band, but for life. This is such a life altering experience and you find yourself not only wanting to do better health-wise, but improve all the aspects of it. Make sure you have people in your life that will add to it, and not deduct from it.
 
2. Keep it simple stupid! Don't major in the minors!! The band is hard...but it's not complicated. Follow the rules and listen to your body (the good stuff) and you will succeed. Don't make the band something it's not or try to complicate it. It's a simple tool.. work it and it works!!
 
1. Prepare to wait! Patience is KEY in losing weight this way. As the saying goes, "We didn't put this weight on overnight.. we won't lose it overnight."
 
 
I'm learning a ton about myself..but the most important thing I'm really starting to grasp is that I'm worth it!! =)
 
-Mary-

I am now down 34 pounds!! so it has been 3 months and two weeks, but it is steady! Slow is ok as long it is steady. Just think if I continue at this pace in another three months and two weeks, I should be down 68 That would be incredible!! I am so hopeful!!

omg 10 hrs and i will be in the hospital i probley wont sleep tonight but going to take a shower and try to relax see you all on the banded side

First, I want to apologize for all my whining last week. It was the first time I hadn't seen the scale move since I started this whole process. Anyways, I am completely ecstatic this morning! After weighing in at 219 Friday morning and feeling down, this morning I weighed in at 215!!! It's soooo awesome! I took the weekend off from the gym and I guess my body just needed to do some catching up. I had hoped to be at 215 today, and it's a miracle that I am lol. I literally jumped up and down and did a little dance in the bathroom. I even checked it twice to make sure I was looking at it right. I'm going back to the gym today, and this week, I'm not going to whine if I don't see the change on the scale because I know that the weight is going to come off as long as I'm persistent! Thanks so much for everyone's encouragement and kind words. I don't know how I would be getting through this process if not for this site and the people on it.
On a personal note, my love life is going in a really positive direction. After being single for 27 years (yes, that would be my whole life!) I have finally found someone who appreciates me for who I am, enjoys being around me, and likes me as much as I like him. It's taken us a while to get to this point, and even though we haven't reached the relationship stage yet, I feel as if it's going in that direction. I have lots to smile about today!
Adding some updated pics of me at 215 pounds!

There are many myths about Medicaid and Medicare when it comes to weight loss surgery. For more than 10 years I put off surgery because I had Medicaid and then Kaiser. When asking the insurance company if weight loss surgery is covered, they will always tell you no. The best place to start is reviewing your 'what's covered' excerpt in your manual. Many health insurance companies will cover your surgery as long as it is medically necessary. A medical necessity is these three things:
1) BMI over 40
2) Two Morbidity (i.e. diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, heart condition, etc.)
3) Pre-op weight loss.
 
These are the guidelines for most insurance companies, but I really wanted to discuss Medicaid/Medicare. Medicaid in most states will cover your surgery as long as you meet their guidelines for medical necessity. The first place to start is with your PCP. If you make your PCP aware that you are considering weight loss surgery, they will be able to refer to you to a surgeon that accepts your insurance. The surgeons are familiar with the procedure and will get the surgery approved as long as you qualify.
 
Depending on your state, Medicaid will allow certain procedures. In Ohio the Gastric Sleeve is not accepted for the weight loss surgery, but Lapband and Bypass are. This is the step that you stay in constant contact with your surgeon and they will have a specialist that handles all insurance questions that knows these companies in and out.
 
The surgery will not happen quickly, the normal wait time for Medicaid/Medicare is nine (9) months. You report to your surgeons office once per month for weigh ins and follow-up with dietitian and the surgeon. There are also several tests are required. I would suggest doing them as soon as possible, this way if there are any additional tests that need to be conducted, you have time to get them done.
 
Because most states have opted to provide their Medicaid/Medicare in *** form, it actually works a lot better than if it were strictly run by the State. My insurance is Molina of Ohio (Ohio Medicaid), I was approved for surgery after the 1st request. My surgery was paid for 100% without complication. The nine month waiting period gives you time to make sure that this is the right choice for you , and also begin changing you lifestyle. So if someone tells you that weight loss surgery is out of the question because you receive Medicaid/Medicare, this is not at all true. Check your manual and with your PCP, if you have any questions I may be able to assist. I hope that this blog helps people understand that there is hope for those that struggle with their weight and receive public health benefits.

So this past weekend we had a sort-of reunion. My family is VERY large (my dad had eight brothers/sisters) and we're all really close. We also all (most of us anyway) have had weight issues. Thinking back as a child, any gathering we had together, ALWAYS focused and centered around food. This weekend was no different. There was ham, pasta, roast beef, cheese, potato casseroles, deviled eggs, brownies, turtle cakes, you name it! I'm proud to say that I had 1 deviled egg, 2 small meatballs, 1 slice cheese, and I couldn't help myself but I had the corn casserole. I went slow- got my protein in first and had NO, nada, zilch for dessert. I'm committed to this and if that means I'm missing out a little bit, well then so be it. Today I also discovered myfitnesspal.com! I've been seeing everyone with their weightloss tickers and that website rocks! Its so easy for me to pop the info into my computer or my phone. I also have to thank my co-worker for walking with me on lunch today. I wanted to stop at three laps, but she made me do six laps. She said, "theres no traffic in the extra mile". I said, huh? She said if you push yourself, you'll feel better and theres nothing stopping you to go the extra mile. No wonder she is also my business partner- what a smart girl!
 
Mags

I have...at least that's how it feels right now, but at least I have my band. Surgery took about an hour, no hernia to fix and I'm told my liver was shrunk nicely. Also, I hit my pre op weight loss goal of 20 lbs., score! I cant say I'm digging the soreness right now, but i will say there is no way I'm going back to fast food after this; its not worth the pain.

So after a bit of a stall in weight loss, I hit a milestone today. I am now down a total of 40 pounds from my start weight. The last two pounds took their sweet time comng off but today I was so excited when I got off the scale I was jumping up and down -naked, in my dining room. Thank god my kids were still asleep. Now only 80 lbs more to go. I am third of the way to my goal and I'm use over a month post op. This week I made some discoveries I want to share:
 
First- If I'm going have any money left to buy nice clothes by the time I reach my goal weight I need need to figure out how to get clothing now for my change body that doesn't break the bank but I still feel good in. I bought a pair of size 18 jeans two weeks ago-$25 on sale - too big now. All my other jeans too big to wear out of house cause if I move around too much they fall down, or they look too frumpy because too big. So...I found a new second hand store that had just open near by a friend of mine took me too on Wednesday. It was nicer then most and had some really nice clothing for cheap. I got three pairs of designer jeans-one still had original price tag of $65 -size 16, all for under $20 TOTAL! - They were really tight on Wednesday, had to lie down to get zipped, but not so bad today. I actually got them on and up while standing up with no problem.
 
Second- Oikos Key Lime Greek Yogurt-If you crumble up a small bit of graham cracker on top, It tastes very much like a Real Key Lime Pie. 11 grams of protein and 150 calories. I felt like I was being so bad but I wasn't.
 
Third- When I was putting makeup, to go to meeting at kids new school, on this morning I noticed I had cheek bones again!!! So cool. I actually skipped to my friends car in my new not too tight jeans.
 
Take care everyone.

In 24 hours I'll be banded...queue Europe's "The Final Countdown". I can't believe it's finally here. I remember the first time I seriously considered the band, last May at my son's little league pool party. One of his coaches (whom I considered to be a "guys" guy) told me he'd had the band for about a year and was loving it. Loving the time he was able to be more active in his son's life, the ability to get more out of life, how it brought him closer to his spouse, and I just remember thinking "if I would just swallow my pride and accept I needed help with my weight, I could be a lot happier".
 
You see, my wife was already planning her lap band at this time and I fully supported her decision to get healthy and reclaim her life, but up until this point I had pretty much resigned myself to being a "fat" dad... the one who was a master at the barbecue pit during family cook-outs but who didn't get into the pool with his kids or play catch with them...because it's too hard.
 
I know the band is not a magic wand that fixes all aspects of one's life, but for me most of my unhappiness stemmed from not having the ability to control my own issues with food to the point that it was affecting my relationship with my kids and my wife. Tony is 10, I have 8 years left with him "full time" and only about 3 more until he becomes his own person and starts socializing outside the home, how long before he doesn't want to do anything with me regardless of what I can and can't do physically? Josh is 4, if I keep going the rate I am I will die before I see him turn 18.
2005.. the start of my weight gain.
In regards to my marriage, we had our kids very young. We've never had the time to ourselves to really be just a couple. We have always made plans to travel and enjoy each other when the kids are grown, but without a healthier lifestyle what are we going to be able to do? Watch Food network and visit every buffet restaurant in the state? I want more than that! I want us to climb a Mayan Pyramid and see top of the Eiffel Tower. I want to be intimate without fear of throwing out my back.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
And now here we are, 7 months later. one day away from go time. I have the usual nervousness and apprehension that comes with any procedure, but all in all I am ready. Ready to make the effort to change my life, ready to put my family and my own health as the number one priority in my life. READY.
 
 
 
 
 
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WELL SATURDAY WILL BE THE START OF A NEW BEGINNING IN MY LIFE. FOR THE PAST FEW DAYS I HAVE HAD SUCH AN UPLIFTING FEELING LOTS OF ENERGY (EVEN GETTING TO WORK IF NOT ON TIME SOMETIMES EARLIER LOL) THIS FEELING IS GREAT. I HAVE LOST 10 LBS FOR FAR. I AM A TYPE 2 DIABETIC AND MY NUMBERS HAVE BEEN GREAT THIS MORNING IT WAS 96. IT PROVES THAT WATCHING AND CUTTING OUT CARBS REALLY HAS AN IMPACT ON SUGAR. I DONT MISS THOSE FOODS WHEN I SEE THE RESULTS OF WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I WATCH DIET. I FOUND A GOOD CLEAR LIQUID THAT WILL MAKE MY POST OP DIET NOT BE SO BAD. ITS CHINESE CHICKEN BROTH ( NO WONTONS OF COURSE) IT TASTES GOOD AND ON COLD DAYS IT JUST WARMS ME UP. LOOKING FORWARD TO STARTING MY ZUMBA VIDEO SOON. !!!!

So Im going to tell you my pleasure of what makes me feel really good i like to sit in the shower sometimes hot sometimes cool and i like to think of the future of how i want my new style to be when im thin how i want my makeup should i save for a boob lift or buy the things i always wanted at the mall or just walking thru the mall without feeling out of place going to a spa gym etc and feeling good craving that cool feeling at the beach having romance feeling cute and fun having energy looking good naked waking up rubbing a flat stomach feeling that fresh breeze after sweating at the gym those are outta thousands of stuff i wanna experience<3

Many people have been wondering whether or not these 'fun' games on the Kinect really help with exercising. I can contest that using these outlets to exercise on those days you cannot make it to the gym is essential. For those that are just starting their journey and may be a little 'gym shy', can use a video game forum to get their activity in.
 
Dance Central has a 'workout' option that tracks your time and calories burned. The great thing about it is that if you pause, the calories stop tracking so it seems very accurate. Not only is it fun, but it really is a great exercise tool. Dancing hits all points of your body, arm, legs and abs. You don't even realize how much you are working out until you start sweating. I would suggest that anyone that is looking to increase their activity level or may miss that day at the gym, pop in a video game and get your dance on.

Well I'm totally committed (or my husband would say I need to BE committed!) to exercising. I know that the scale staying at 18lbs lost for a week was because I needed to get up and shake what my momma gave me! I am doing Zumba on Tuesdays/Thursdays, but I was searching for something I could do at home. Low and behold, I bought the Just Dance 3 for the Wii. HIGHLY recommend! Everynight when my hubby goes to bed I get my controller strapped on to my wrist and I go to town. I'm sure if anyone was videotaping me I would go viral instantly because I'm sure that is a funny site to see! It actually lets you keep track of your week and your "sweat points". Not sure really what that means, but I'll take it!
 
NSV of the week:
Going back to work and having two boxes of Krispy Kreme GLAZED donuts on the table and not even having a desire to eat one!

This journey is different for everyone and we all have our individual struggles as well as our individual triumphs.
 
My main reason for lapbanding was basically to lose weight in a healthy, but fairly quick environment. On my own, I quickly lost motivation and patience when the scale didn't move, or didn't move enough and then quickly resorted back into the comfort of food/drink.
 
There has been alot of discussion lately on what is an acceptable or average weight loss per week/per month.
 
I just have to say that 1 lb a week is UNACCEPTABLE to me.
 
My surgeon practices at one of the country's best hospitals and assures me I can do 20-30 lbs a month if I stick to his rules, so I am! I am averaging 5-8 lbs now a week. Since my surgery December 15th, I have lost 27 lbs. Overall loss is 38 lbs.
 
I could have done 1 lb a week without having surgery and spending a small fortune. I know this is a TOOL, but it needs to do its job when I do mine - the perfect partnership. I feel absolutely no restriction right now, so it is pure will-power - something I have never had, but I am not going to risk hurting my lapband by overeating or eating the wrong things. I know in time I will feel the restriction and it will provide some support to my own will power and I can rely on the band a little more each day and not feel I am alone.
 
Please remember, this is a different journey for all of us, but the desired result is the same - a healthier, happier YOU! God Bless and stay the course!
 
Leslie

One of the most talked about subjects you learn of when going through weight loss counseling is the difference between real (physical) and psychological (head) hunger. What's the difference? "When I'm hungry I'm hungry and that is all that matters"...I know that's how I felt (and occasionally feel), I'm sure many of you feel the same way.
 
Well, it turns out there is a difference, and surprisingly one is much harder to control than the other. Physical hunger ( I associate it with stomach growling) only happens to me about twice a day and it's technically remedied with anything from a piece of fruit to a big glass of water. Honestly, when I reach the point of true physical hunger I don't like eating greasy or fast food because it makes me nauseated (this is the correct way to use this word; read a book!).
 
When I am "head" hungry I find it really hard to think about anything besides eating. At work, school, or home it doesn't really matter what I'm doing or where I'm at all I want to do is eat. Now, does that mean i think about eating 24x7? No. But it means that when that psychological hunger DOES hit (usually for me around 12 noon and 8pm at night) it's really hard to focus on anything else. Now, like many heavy people, I have not always been obese. When I was in shape I still used to have these cravings, everyone does. Except when you are fit, the cravings are called "hankerings" or "in the mood for's". When you are large, the cravings are called "Eternal God Masters of chicken nuggets" (or whatever your poison is.. for me it's the mighty McNugget). Basically the cravings start to run your life. You know you are making bad choices (with the internet access and the focus on our country's health, how can you be totally oblivious to what is healthy and what isn't?) yet you make them anyways because the pleasure your brain has associated with the flavors of fast food, junk food, cola, etc. is so powerful you simply don't care. *
 
All that being said, today was a small victory for me and a big one for will power and truth/justice/americanwaysoforthandsoon.. As you can see by my weight loss calculator I am down 12 lbs. since starting my pre-op diet. Not bad at all. I've also been hitting the gym lately trying to gear myself up for daily life after the surgery. So today at work I decided walk across the street to Wendy's to get lunch. I don't know if it was the good weather, the confidence from losing weight or the desire to not lose my parking space... but I was determined to walk. The walk itself was easy enough, but the funny thing is ... when I left the building I was going on full head hunger... I was still feeling good from my Atkins shake this morning and more than anything just wanted something to get the NutraSweet taste out of my mouth. By the time I returned from Wendy's with my Chicken Caesar salad in tow... I was starving (physically). The simple act of walking 1/2 a mile to the store and back had built up enough physical hunger for me to actually need to eat. Score one for my side! I can't describe how good I felt upon return. Instead of sitting down with my usual baconator and a side of shame, I sat down with my salad and a side of triumph.
 
* Now I must say as a disclaimer for now and in all future blogs that even though I say "you" I really mean "me". I can only speak for myself... I know plenty of folks are born with genetics that contribute to being large, or thyroid problems, etc. but for me... its pretty much just a love of crappy (albeit delicious food).
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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So I started back at the gym Friday night! I am sooo happy! I went Friday night, Saturday and Sunday morning. I have a routine down now. I can't do much (as I just started out) so I do 15 minutes on the treadmill to get warmed up, 15 minutes on the bycycle, 15 minutes on the eliptical, then another 15 minutes on the treadmill. I'm happy to report that between Friday morning and this morning, I have lost 3 pounds!! It's so awesome! I'm going to go 5 times a week for an hour. I hope to eventually get up to 30 minutes on the eliptical as that thing kicks butt (almost literally!). I won't be working on any strength exercises until I get the approval from the doctor. My next appointment is February 7th. I'm definitely going to want another fill (although I've lost 7 pounds since my last one on January 3rd) because even though I'm not over eating and I don't feel hungry between meals, it's only my own restraint that's keeping me from eating everything I want. I have zero restriction right now. But I suppose that's normal. I've only had one fill. Anyways, that's my update for now! Don't forget to add me on myfitnesspal. SN is legnarevocrednu Thanks!!

So it's been just over a month since my Band surgery. I'm down to 218. That's 17 pounds since surgery. For a total of 38 since start of my journey. I have been stalled for the last week or so since last blog at 220 and finally start to slide down this past weekend. No real change in what I was doing just had a pause in weight lost. I DID fit into a pair of size 16 jeans, on the 11th. I couldn't breath, but they were on for a few minutes. By this weekend I was wearing those 16's and breathing just fine. Had to go to a Boyscout event with my son this Saturday and saw a few parents I had hadn't seen in a few weeks. One mom came up and said, " Well hello Skinny! You look great" I had some real tough time this past week. Tuesday night my daughter comes in to kitchen while I starting dinner and says on of the scariest things I ever heard from a 7 year old. " Mommy, my heart hurts". So after listening to her chest, her rapid heart beat and taking her pulses, ran her to ER, than followed up with a cardiologist friday. She told him it happens all the time, especially after gym class...Great sweetie. She is now on a heart monitor for next month, all other test came back normal. Hopefully we will know more if we can catch something on the monitor. Thursday I had to put my baby cat to sleep. She was almost 18 years old and on her way to kidney failure. Poor little Roo. Then I had to tell the kids, not easy. All of this stress, and I stay on track and lost a pound. I have been in the past an emotional eater. I would have made a chocolate cake to morn the cat or grabbed some crap to eat at hospital, while waiting in ER all night in past. So even though it was stressful , it was a good indicator of my progress mentally. I don't get a fill til mid Feb. I start back to school for Spring term of Nursing school next Monday. I am very exicited to start back up and to not look like the stay puff marshmellow man in my uniform now. I still have a long journery to go to a healther BMI and me, But I know I can do it and I' on my way.

Well, tomorrow is the big day, back to the grind. I had enough sick time I should have had the doctor say I had to be off for three months? Actually I'm looking forward to going back to work. Its more of a routine. I'm super busy from start to finish at work, so this will be good. PLUS, all my co-workers are so supportive! I already have a work out buddy at work- we plan on getting there 1/2 hour early (0530-yuk!) to walk. Plus I'm suuuuuuper excited because I just bought the WII Just Dance 3, in addition to committing to Zumba Tuesday and Thursdays. I've been "stuck" at 18lbs lost and I have to remind myself to just keep on keeping on with what I'm doing: measuring my 1/2 c meals, getting my 60g protein in, getting >64oz water in. I haven't waivered from my diet and don't plan on it. I've been given this gift (Prudence is her name) and I'm going to use that band gift to finally do it right. So I've got my meal planned and packed for tomorrow.
 
I'm excited for what this week will bring with me moving more at work and starting to really get in to exercise! Have a great week!
 
 
Mags

Today while reading, I noticed that a lot of people who have been recently banded seem to be frustrated because they are not losing weight...
 
Well, just remember, the band is a tool that only assists us with our weight loss but we have to do the work. We have to make healthy choices in selecting foods, we have to be sure to drink water and exercise. And most of all, we need to understand that just because we can "eat as much as we did before surgery" we should not be doing that.
 
It may take quite a few fills until restriction is felt...I started getting fills Sept 19, 2011 and have gone every 2 weeks since then and received a fill...it has only been this past fill that I finally really feel restriction. I have 9.25 cc's in my band 14 cc band. The Doctor put 4 cc's in at the time of surgery.
 
I did some eating history as it pertained to myself and realized that carbohydrates are my personal enemy, so I shy away from them as much as possible. I do have a few crackers every so often, (even that has proven to be the enemy) but am pleased to say I have given up bread, pasta and rice, as well as potatoes. That stuff really packed the pounds on me. I was 299 at my heaviest and am proud to say that this morning the scale said 226. I am more than 1/2 way to goal of 160 pounds, and then tummy tuck, here I come.
 
good luck to everyone

Ok so my new goal was to be in a size 14 by feb 14th. I decided to go to the mall this weekend and pic out something cute in a 14 to see how far i had to go. well lo and behold everything i tried on was 14's and they fit!!!! I was soooo shocked! no spanks, no girdles, just me!!!! wow i'm starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel and believing i can make my goal of a 12 or 10 in one year! wish me luck!!!

This is my first blog so I hope I'm doing this right. My name is Sandra and I'm a married mom of two wonderful boys. I was banded on December 23, 2011 and lost 20 ppounds in the first two weeks. In the second two weeks not so much... I gained 1 pound. So, today was my first fill and it was a lot easier than I expected. The Doc asked me to lay on my back. He found my port and numbed me a bit then filled me up. He then had me sit up and sip water until I could feel it in my throat.then he removed some fluid from my band until the water moved down smoothly. I sat in the loby until I could comfortably drink a half bottle of water. Then I left for home. Awesome. I feel great. If this helps anyone else then my time is well worth it. Thanks to my family... Dr Sal... And thanks be to God.

Hello Blog Land! I've missed you so. Its been weeks since my last confession blog. Before Christmas I weighed in at 178lbs. This morning I weighed in at 177.2lbs. Yesterday I celebrated my 1 year bandiversary. It has been tough but easy, emotional but encouraging and certainly up and down, roundabout journey! I wouldn't change a thing. I am satisfied with my progress with eating and exercising. Coming to terms with the denial that I was living in has been tough but if there is anyway to sum it up: **** happened - not happens. I am in control of me and my choices. Bring it on! Maybe in 2012 I will hit the 100lbs lost mark. If not, I am cool with whatever happens as long as I continue to challenge myself, get more fit and never look back!
 
I have attempted to blog a few times over the last few weeks so bear with me as I compile them all here and start with a clean new slate in 2012 and start my 2nd year of being banded.
 
Things over the Holidays were a little nutty but fantastic nonetheless. I spent time with family and had the Mother-In-Law staying with us for a few weeks too. All in all I have to say that I did pretty good over the holidays. New Years Day breakfast consisted of nachos that I didn't fire off for the party we hosted for our friends and framily but that was a small blip in the radar. I did have a few too many drinks the one night but kept the snacking and drinking to a minimal over the Holidays. The biggest difference for me was the way I piled my plate at the festive meals. All of what seemed like 10 of them! I did take more then I intended to eat. I would say that on average, my meals were less than half of the size that they were last year. I was left feeling like I didn't really put in allot of effort to make this happen and totally reassured that I have made some concrete lifestyle changes that really are just natural to me now. It has gotten easier and I hope that it will continue to happen until I get to where I want to be. I still have no restriction.

AWKWARD FRAMILY PHOTOS! I love my besties!
Looking back on 2011, I really am so proud of the NSV's and the SV's! I started 2011 @ 222lbs. In all, I lost 44lbs last year and 85lbs in total. Here are some of my fav NSV's from 2011.

I can sit comfortably in a plane seat with a dangling seat-belt!
Usually every time we go to Newfoundland, I like to take a hike at Cape Spear. The furthest Eastern Part of North America. Many times I would stop halfway to the lighthouse to catch my breathe or baby my burning legs from the hike. This year, I jogged part way up and finished the rest of the hike without a single wheeze! I felt like I could have easily done it again... and again. lol
I have gone from a size 20 jean to a 12/10.
I finally got my vessel (body) gussied up with a completed ladies of the family tribute tattoo on my arm. I will actually wear sleeveless tops these days despite my wrinkly batwings.
I can hold a plank for 60 seconds! A long time goal that I met in 2011.
I can shop for clothing at the regular size stores. H&M, Espirit, MEXX... A far cry from the frumpy florals at Addition Elle and Penningtons!
I bought a pair of mid-calf high boots. My calves have NEVER fit in to cute boots! Still not in to the knee high boots yet but I feel that they lead people to believe that you have some sass. I am not ready to let people in on that yet. lol. Ladies who rock them, I envy you! They look great with your cute little jeans all tucked in! A goal for 2012.

So much to be thankful for! 2011 brought me a husband! Okay fine, I've had him for 8 years but now that it is official, there is a sort of "honeymoon" stage that came along with the wedding. The "honeymoon" stage in my world is coming home to an empty dishwasher and sometimes even a crumbless counter. WOOT WOOT!
I finally am feeling like our home is homey. When we moved in to the 4 bedroom house from the 600 sq/ft condo it was really empty and echoey here. It felt cold and sanitary. ICK. I painted the kitchen last January and with some additions of plants, art and us finally adding some shelves and accessories to the bedroom, I am pretty darn comfy here!
 
I did attempt to get back to blogging last week and started with this:
2012 has started on a rough note. My 90 year old Grandfather had his leg amputated on December 30th due to complications from diabetes. He has been fighting this disease and the associated complications for many many years. His fight was a major reason that I started my WL journey. Because of his age he was not put out. He was given an epidural of sorts and remained awake while they removed his right leg just below the knee. Our entire family packed the hospital waiting room and banded together to support him and the tough decision that he had made. We waited a couple of hours and were met by the surgeon to inform us that he had made it through surgery like a champion! We all took turns going on to visit him after the surgery and when my sister and I got our chance we didn't hold back. My Grandfather is a sweet, gentle giant. I swear, his index finger is the size of a banana! Okay, not that big... and really he isn't that tall when I come to think of it. Regardless, he always seemed like a giant to me. Anyway, he is TOUGH. Tough as nails. After surgery, my sister and I wanted to congratulate him for being so tough. He tried to argue with us as he cried, mourning the loss of his leg and the normal appearance that he has had for 90 years. All I could tell him was that after being married to my Grandmother for 65 years, he is tough! He laughed. We hugged him and told him how proud of him we were and left the hospital feeling confident that he would pull through. 2 days later, pneumonia set in. His speech started to slur. We suspected mini strokes that were never confirmed. Slowly, as they removed a direct line for pain from his stump and pushed med after med to deal with constipation, pain and infection his health declined. Yesterday morning, after spending the extremely rough night with him (my sobbing-self and incredible Aunt stayed all night) my Grandmother came to spend the day (like everyday since) beside his bed holding his hand. All she could do yesterday was hold him and cry. Through my own tears, I tried to picture them on their wedding day. Holding each others same hands as they were now. Did they ever think about the things that they would go through together. Did they know that they would face challenges like this? Did my Grandmother know that she would have to live without him one day? Or did they both deny it to themselves? Now, being newly married myself, I got home late from a work meeting last night and crawled in to bed with the fast asleep Mister. All I could think about when I looked at him was a whirl of life. What would it look like for us and would I be holding his hand like my Grandmother held my Grandfathers this morning one day? Would I have to live without him or vice versa one day? Without a doubt, I know that my Mister is the one for me and that all of these things, good and bad, are coming for us. I am not afraid... as long as I can hold his hand.
 
Grandpa has gone back to our hometown hospital late last night via ambulance. He has been unresponsive since he arrived but he is comfortably resting and not in pain.
 
A few hours after I wrote this I closed it and headed off to an evening meeting. While I was at work the hubby got the call from my Dad. He waited for me to get settled in at home and to have a little snuggle session (I had been go go go without time for this fav pastime with my man over the last few weeks) before he told me that my Grandfather had passed away. I was relieved. I was sad. I was worried about my Grandmother and my Dad and the rest of our family that depended on our patriarch to bond the family with a gentle noble mischievous hand. We will miss him terribly.

 
Celebrating the 64th Anniversary - May 2011
 
 
I am promising myself for 2012 that I will not put off until tomorrow, what can be done today (except for work). I will try to do all of the things that I want to do and do nothing that I don't want to do. I will try to keep the big picture in my mind through all that I do. I will continue on with my healthy lifestyle. Mind, Body and Spirit.
 
Love life peeps!
 

I have hit below 300 for the first time in a year and half! Just wanted to share my milestone!